



Sprains are ranked in three degrees

  1.  A first-degree sprain is a slight stretching of one or more ligaments. This results in mild tenderness.
  2. A second-degree sprain is a partial tearing that results in moderate tenderness and swelling. The ankle may have some instability.
  3. A third-degree sprain, the most severe, is a complete ligament tear. This results in severe pain, swelling and ankle instability.

Ankle sprains are categorized by the type of motion that causes the injury

Lateral Inversion Sprains

The most common type, called a lateral inversion sprain, occurs when the foot rolls inward. This causes injury to the ligaments on the outer side of the ankle, especially the anterior talofibular ligament.

Medial Eversion Sprains

The second type of sprain called a medial eversion sprain, occurs when the foot rolls outward. This type of sprain causes injury to the ligaments on the inner side of the ankle.

Syndesmosis (High Ankle) Sprains

The least common type of sprain is called a syndesmosis (or “high ankle”) sprain. This type of sprain occurs when the foot rolls outward and the leg turns inward.

anatomy of a sprain


Treatment for an ankle sprain depends on the severity of the injury. Treatment usually begins with rest, ice, compression and elevation. A first-degree sprain typically requires a bandage wrap. A second-degree sprain may require an ankle brace. A third-degree sprain may require a cast or walking boot. As the ankle heals, all patients typically benefit from rehabilitation exercises. Surgery is not usually needed.